About 10 years ago I watched my dad run his first marathon.  Our family met him at the finish line, he looked at us all and said, "don't ever let me do that again."  But of course, he did it again.  Today I am starry eyed and inspired by those words, not discouraged.  Because like my dad, I am a runner.  Over the past four years, life has handed me some speed bumps, like it does us all, and I have found myself managing those hard times by running. 

During a particularly difficult phase in my life, I began training for my first half marathon.  I remember doing my first long training run with a very good friend of mine.  We were running straight uphill in Brookline and she said to me, "Steph, we are stronger than we know".  I cried.  She cried.  But we tackled that hill and finished our first long run! 

I have learned so much through these runs about strength and challenge and perserverence.  So today, I am THRILLED to begin this new challenge:  the BOSTON Marathon! 

But of course, I cannot do it without your help!  After researching so many wonderful charities, I am excited to say that GoKIds Boston has accepted me to be a part of their team.  GoKIds' mission is to enhance the lives of youth in the Boston community by providing education and activites to improve their physical and emotional health.  Childhood obesity and health issues are an epidemic and kids living in low income areas are most vulnerable to these issues.  Poverty often creates a situation where children have less opportunity for healthy living (fresh fruits and veggies are expensive!) and without supports and resources, these kids start their lives at a disadvantage.  UMASS Boston and GoKids mission is directly in line with my own professional goals, as I have spent the last 7 years working with inner city youth in foster care.  I am personally dedicated to making a difference in these children's lives, on a daily basis, in whatever small way possible.  I ask that you join me in making a difference and help me meet my fundraising goal!

Love you all!

Steph